dailyloe.com – Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is assisting Anthony Joshua in preparing for his matchup against Tyson Fury. The fight is set for later this year after Joshua’s bout with Kristian Prenga on 25 July in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Usyk has been training with Joshua in Spain and Ukraine. He expressed confidence that Joshua will defeat Fury, stating, “In my opinion AJ wins against Fury.” He acknowledged Fury’s talent but emphasized Joshua’s improvements in training.
Usyk called Fury an “unbelievable fighter” and his “greedy belly best friend.” He added, “I want Anthony to win – he deserves it.” Usyk does not anticipate any challenges for Joshua against Prenga, referring to it as “official sparring.”
As Usyk prepares to defend his WBC title against Rico Verhoeven on 23 May in Egypt, he plans to welcome Joshua into his training camp. “We will help him in training,” Usyk stated, discussing strategy and psychology with Joshua.
Joshua’s last fight was a victory against Jake Paul in December. However, he has taken time off to recover mentally after a tragic car crash that killed two friends. Usyk expressed empathy for Joshua, sharing his own experiences of loss due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Usyk advised Joshua to take his second chance seriously, saying, “Listen, God gave you one more chance. Take this chance and don’t stop or cry.” He emphasized the importance of prayer and perseverance in life.
“It’s hard but I think my friends now are like angels,” Usyk remarked. He continues to work and pray, emphasizing the need to appreciate life and keep moving forward.
